Campari Tomatoes
Estimated Inventory, 16 ct : 0
Description/Taste
Campari tomatoes are regarded as some of the sweetest and most flavorful tomatoes in the market. They are known for their superior texture and their distinct acid and sugar balance, which gives them their signature taste. Campari tomatoes are classified as a cocktail tomato, slightly bigger than a cherry tomato but smaller and rounder than a plum tomato. They are deep red in color, redder than most store-bought tomatoes, because they are grown hydroponically and ripened on the vine, which also eliminates the need for pesticides. They are shipped with the vine still attached, so they continue to ripen naturally and do not have to be ripened with ethylene gas. Once the tomato on the vine is harvested, the tomatoes ripen from the top of the cluster down.
Seasons/Availability
The Campari tomato is available nearly year-round, with occasional, short gaps in availability.
Current Facts
Campari is a variety of tomato, member of the Solanum family, and its botanical name is Solanum lycopersicum 'Campari.' The Campari tomato is a hybrid tomato that was developed for the late 20th Century market. Like many other fruits and vegetables that evolved out of the last few decades of the 1900s, Campari tomatoes were branded from the beginning to distinguish them from the diluted array of tomatoes already in the market. Campari tomatoes were branded as the "tomato lover’s tomato." Their tagline was so convincing that within the first few years of their debut, Campari tomatoes became a supermarket favorite.
Nutritional Value
Campari tomatoes contain a multitude of vitamins and minerals, including lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of cancer. Tomatoes have been linked to bone health and heart health, and have been shown to help lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. In addition, tomatoes may help prevent unwanted clumping together, or aggregation, of platelet cells in the blood, which is especially important in lowering the risk of heart problems like atherosclerosis.
Applications
Campari tomatoes are sought after for their inherent sweetness. They are great for snacking, and are often served fresh over salads, mozzarella, or specialty meats. Campari tomatoes can also be used in cooking, when the high sugar content is desired. Try roasting and serving on pizza, sandwiches, or in salsa. Campari tomatoes also make superb bruschetta, as they pair wonderfully with basil and garlic. Store Campari tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight until completely ripe. Refrigeration can then be used to slow the process of decay.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
The Campari tomato had a taste of fame in 2002 when it made an appearance on the popular television series, "The Sopranos." The cameo actually boosted the Campari tomato’s relevancy, and perhaps its level of respect, within the Italian-American community. The following year, the Campari tomato recorded more than a fifty-percent increase in sales. With competition from thousands of other tomato varieties, the strategic product placement certainly gave the Campari tomato an edge in the market.
Geography/History
The Campari tomato was originally developed by a Dutch seed company in Europe, and is now trademarked and owned by the Mastronardi Produce Company of Ontario, Canada. Although Campari tomatoes account for just two-percent of total U.S. tomato sales, their popularity is considered to be relatively high for a single variety, considering there are 6,000 known tomato varieties in the market today.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Campari Tomatoes. One
is easiest, three is harder.Podcast
